Rialto Bridge
The Public Theatre's public works Hell's Kitchen Anyone can join in the flash mob in Central Park
Camille A. Brown and Every Body Move will collaborate on a choreographed performance of Alicia Keys' “Empire State of Mind” at Frisbee Hill.
Camille A. Brown
Heather Gershonowitz
Free Shakespeare in the Park performances may be off while Central Park's Delacorte Theatre undergoes renovation, but the Public Works Department isn't letting that stop it. The initiative will feature a public, choreographed flash mob on Central Park's Frisbee Hill on August 12. The dance, choreographed by Camille A. Brown and Every Body Move, will be set to Alicia Keys' “Empire State of Mind” from the cast recording of Broadway's “Empire State of Mind.” Hell's Kitchen (It had its world premiere at The Public last year.) It will be directed by The Public's Director of Public Works, Laurie Woolley.
Public Works is typically performed as part of the Public's Free Shakespeare in the Park season, which also includes opportunities for large ensembles made up of community groups from around New York City. While Shakespeare productions are the most common in Public Works' performance history, Disney's Hercules It was also announced through public works.
The event is open to anyone in New York City who wants to participate. The theater will be releasing digital videos teaching the choreography in the coming weeks, and in-person rehearsals will also be available through public pop-up events throughout the summer. The final performance will be on August 12th at 6pm.
“As Director of Community Engagement for Camille A. Brown & Dancers, I am honored to partner with the Public Theater's Public Works Department on this ambitious project,” Michelle Rivera said in a statement. “Our Every Body Move initiative is founded on the belief that dance has the power to unite and strengthen communities. This collaboration with the Public Works Department aligns perfectly with our mission to engage and empower individuals through the art of ballroom dance. Together, we are creating a unique opportunity for New Yorkers of all ages and abilities to celebrate their city and themselves in a grand way. This partnership not only highlights our commitment to accessible and inclusive cultural experiences, but also reinforces our ongoing efforts to foster dialogue and connection through community-driven performances. I look forward to watching this joint effort inspire and revitalize the community, encouraging all participants to feel ownership and pride in their creative expression.”
“For the past 11 summers, the Department of Public Works has brought 200 New Yorkers to perform on a stage in Central Park, creating art that reflects our vision for a unified city,” he added. Woollery: “While we were renovating Delacourt, we asked ourselves: 'What if we created an artistic experience? all “What is accessible to everyone in New York? With Alicia Keys' amazing anthem and choreography reimagined exclusively for Public Works by the renowned Camille A. Brown in collaboration with her company Every Body Move, we knew we could create an incredibly ambitious project that captures the joy and celebration of being a New Yorker, inclusive of New Yorkers of all ages and abilities. Everyone is welcome. We can't wait to dance with you!”
Hell's Kitchenfeaturing Keys' hit songs as well as new songs written specifically for the musical, is currently running at the Shubert Theatre. The musical won two 2024 Tony Awards, including Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for Maleah Joy Moon and Best Featured Actress in a Musical for Keisia Lewis.
